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Ramadan in Dubai: These women connect, build friendship through ladies-only iftar gatherings
Initiatives like these create a space where women can meet, share experiences, and build genuine connections, said one resident
- PUBLISHED: Tue 18 Mar 2025, 5:30 AM
During Ramadan, a unique initiative has emerged, bringing together women from diverse backgrounds to share iftar meals, forging connections among those who may not know each other.
Organised primarily through social media, these gatherings take place on different days and at various locations, inviting Muslim and non-Muslim women alike who may feel lonely or are simply looking to meet new people.
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Khadija Qadri, an Egyptian living in Dubai, recalled hearing about the gatherings two years ago, but it wasn’t until this year that she attended her first one. “I’m so glad I did. The gathering is simple; no extravagance, just women coming together at the beach,” she shared. “Each person brings food and drinks to share with everyone, even with the workers around us. There’s also a personal touch when everyone introduces themselves, which makes it feel more meaningful.”
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The sense of community extends beyond the meal itself, with participants sharing homemade food or drinks, creating bonds with people they may have never met before. “The preparation for these gatherings means you cook or bake something and share it with strangers. It’s a beautiful feeling,” Khadija said.
“The quality of the people makes all the difference too. The women I met were lovely — they’re eager to meet new people, expand their social circle, and engage in deep, meaningful conversations," she added.
Fatima Harrioui, the founder of DubaiMusts, emphasised the special place these gatherings hold. “We started the ladies-only iftar on the beach naturally, inspired by the spirit of Ramadan — sharing meals and coming together,” she explained. “It began with friends bringing friends and grew into a welcoming space where women of all backgrounds and beliefs can come together, connect, or simply enjoy each other’s company.”
These gatherings are part of a broader range of events organised by Fatima’s community. “In winter, we host beach workouts. Throughout the year, we run casual coffee meetups, professional networking events, hiking trips, tree planting activities, art workshops, and more. All our events have the same purpose — bringing women together to connect, support one another, and build meaningful relationships.”
Building on this strong foundation of local engagement, Fatima’s vision extends far beyond these gatherings. “We’re a ladies-only travel agency that offers women the summer camp they never had. Whether through our trips or events, we aim to provide women with a fun, empowering, and safe space to connect, grow, and truly enjoy themselves.”
The community has grown organically and flourished through word-of-mouth as well as social media platforms like Instagram and DubaiMusts website, where women can stay updated on upcoming events. Fatima also uses WhatsApp groups to keep everyone connected and informed.
However, the iftar gatherings aren’t limited to just one group. Mel, originally from London, UK, shared her positive experience attending the iftar event with another group. “I’m actually a regular at the New Girl in Town events. I’ve been to a handful of them already. As an online tutor, I don’t have much time and opportunity to go out and socialise," Mel shared.
For Mel, the iftar event was an opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds. “It’s a great opportunity for expats like myself to seek friendships in Dubai, and locals can join too! It’s for ladies from everywhere, which makes it so great,” she added.
For Sara Gharbi, an Algerian expat who recently relocated to Dubai, the iftar gathering by New Girl in Town was a "heartwarming experience".
She also mentioned that initiatives like these create a space where women can meet, share experiences, and build genuine connections. “The atmosphere was incredibly welcoming, and being surrounded by inspiring women made me feel at home in a new city. It was a beautiful reminder that, at the end of the day, we are all here to support and uplift each other," she said.
Her decision to attend the iftar gathering provided her with a chance to connect with others and make lasting friendships. “I’ve made a few close friends whom I hang out with outside of the events now," she shared.
These iftar gatherings and related events offer more than just an opportunity to end fast together. They create spaces for women to foster relationships, share experiences, and celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with a broader, inclusive community.
Ruqayya Alqaydi is an associate editor with an endless curiosity to learn. Like a journalist on a caffeine overdrive, she is fuelled by passion and on a mission to uncover every gem in the UAE.